Surgical Hospitalization

What time should we arrive at Children's of Mississippi on the day of surgery? 

This will depend on the time the surgery is scheduled. If your child is scheduled for surgery at 7 a.m., we ask that you be here no later than 5:30 a.m. Your anesthesiologist will be able to give you this time at your child's pre-operative visit. 

Where do we go when we arrive at the hospital on the day of surgery? 

You will register at the registration desk in the main lobby (Level G - ground floor) of the Kathy and Joe Sanderson Tower. You will then be directed to the perioperative area on Level 1 via the elevators. 

Will my child have to take a bath with special soap before surgery? 

On the day of your pre-operative visit, we will give you a packet of wipes with a special soap to clean your child the night before surgery. A nurse will give you instructions on how to use them. 

What should we bring to the hospital on the day of surgery? 

We ask that you bring a picture ID; insurance card; your child’s favorite item (toy, blanket or stuffed animal); money for meals, transportation or other necessities; and a phone card or cell phone. Clothes that button in the front will be more comfortable for your child once he is transferred to the care floor. Formula and diapers will be provided by the hospital. 

Where will we wait during surgery? 

The perioperative waiting room is on Level 1 of the Sanderson Tower. A nurse from the operating room will update you each hour during surgery.  

How long will the surgery take? 

This will depend on the procedure. As a general rule, a procedure will take about five hours. Ask your surgeon for more details when you come for the pre-operative visit. 

When the surgery is complete, how long will it be before I see my child? 

When the surgery is complete, your child’s surgeon will come speak to you in the family consultation room. It will be about 20 minutes from this time before your child will leave the operating room and be taken to the children's cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU). You can see your child as the OR team transports your child, but you will not be able to stay with him. Once your child arrives in the PCICU, it will be at least another hour before you will be able to visit. During that time, your child will be transitioned to post-operative care. 

Who will take care of my child in the cardiac intensive care unit? 

When your child arrives in the PCICU, there will be a team of medical personnel at his bedside. This includes two cardiac critical care nurses, a cardiac intensive care doctor, respiratory therapist, anesthesiologist, OR nurse, X-ray technician, and surgeon. 

How often will I be able to visit my child in the PCICU? 

We encourage you to participate in the care of your child. Visitation will be open 24 hours a day for parents to visit their child.  

Where can we stay/sleep while my child is in the PCICU? 

Parents will be able to spend the night in the room with their child. Showers are located in each room, and laundry facilities are available in the family room located nearby on the floor.  

When my child is ready to be transferred out of the PCICU, where will he go? 

Your child will be transferred to a nursing unit with nurses specially trained to care for young cardiac patients. 

What services are available to assist my child during his hospital stay? 

Additional services are provided by social workers, chaplains, child life specialists, physical therapists, speech therapists, and teachers. 

Who do we call if we have problems at home after discharge? 

We will go over home care instructions before your child is discharged from the hospital. You will also be given a list of contact names and telephone numbers in case of emergencies, problems or questions.